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Anatomic distribution of intraprostatic lymphatics: Implications for the lymphatic spread of prostate cancer—A preliminary study
Author(s) -
Fukuda Hiroshi,
Yamada Takumi,
Kamata Shigeyoshi,
Saitoh Hiroshi
Publication year - 2000
Publication title -
the prostate
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.295
H-Index - 123
eISSN - 1097-0045
pISSN - 0270-4137
DOI - 10.1002/1097-0045(20000901)44:4<322::aid-pros9>3.0.co;2-8
Subject(s) - lymphatic system , prostate , prostate cancer , pathology , medicine , cystoprostatectomy , h&e stain , immunohistochemistry , cancer , prostatectomy
BACKGROUND Although prostate cancer metastasizes primarily into the lymphatic system, the anatomic distribution of intraprostatic lymphatics has not been elucidated. The aim of this study was to clarify the distribution of lymphatics in the human prostate by immunohistochemical techniques, using an anti‐desmoplakin antibody. METHODS Whole‐mount cryostatic sections were serially cut from the noncarcinomatous prostates of adult men with bladder carcinoma who underwent cystoprostatectomy. Each section was stained either with a monoclonal antibody specific for desmoplakin or with hematoxylin and eosin. RESULTS Lymphatics were detected in all components of the prostate. In the glandular prostate, lymphatics were distributed evenly in the peripheral, transitional, and central zones. The lymphatic density was significantly high in the midbase region surrounding ejaculatory ducts. CONCLUSIONS These results may indicate the importance of the midbase region as a route of lymphatic spread of prostate cancer. Prostate 44:322–327, 2000. © 2000 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.